EASTHAMPTON -- A group with a five-year federal grant to fight youth substance abuse is inviting parents and others to an information-sharing event.

The Easthampton Healthy Youth Coalition plans a community gathering Wednesday evening "to share data, trends and concerns" regarding underage drug use. Dinner and childcare will be provided, and all are welcome, said Ruth Ever, coalition coordinator.

A discussion of "lessons learned from legalizing marijuana in Colorado" is on the agenda, and City Planner Jessica Allan will provide an update on plans to regulate retail marijuana in Easthampton. Results of a 2017 health survey regarding teen substance abuse in Western Massachusetts will be presented, as will information about mental health and the opioid addiction crisis.

The coalition is in the final year of a five-year competitive grant, where it receives $125,000 per year. The group plans to apply for another round of funding through the Office of National Drug Control Policy, said Ever. The coalition's two primary funding goals are to increase community collaboration and decrease youth substance use.

The coalition cites research showing that if a person waits until they are at least 21 -- or ideally, closer to 25 -- to use alcohol, nicotine, or marijuana, their likelihood of addiction or permanent harm is decreased significantly.